NP vs. PA: what is the difference?

The recent passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has highlighted the need for more primary care providers. One solution to increase the primary care provider base is the increased utilization of nurse practioners (NPs) and physician's assistants (PAs). Differences exist in the educational background, board examinations and licensing requirements of NPs and PAs. In addition, their practice patterns, recertification and types of supervision are different. Moreover, changes in the NP educational pathway leading to a doctoral degree will create new challenges regarding collaboration agreements currently required by South Dakota statute. This paper discusses the differences and similarities of NPs and PAs to gain a better understanding of these professions.